Original ResearchThe effects of a combined static-dynamic stretching protocol on athletic performance in elite Gaelic footballers: A randomised controlled crossover trial

•Negative effects of static stretching on performance are well known.•Static stretching may help prevent muscle injuries in running and sprinting activities.•Dynamic stretching can nullify the performance deficits caused by static stretching.•This is significant for program design, prescription and sequencing of exercises within a warm-up.

ObjectivesTo determine the effect of three different static-dynamic stretching protocols on sprint and jump performance in Gaelic footballers.DesignDouble-blind, controlled, crossover trial.SettingSports Institute research environment.ParticipantsSeventeen male elite level Gaelic footballers, aged 18-30 years, completed three stretching protocols.Main Outcome MeasuresAthletic performance was measured by countermovement jump height and power, and timed 10 m, 20 m, and 40 m sprints.ResultsStatic stretching reduced sprint speed by 1.1% over 40 m and 1.0% over 20 m. Static stretching also reduced countermovement jump height by 10.6% and jump power by 6.4%. When static stretching was followed by dynamic stretching, sprint speed improved by 1.0% over 20 m and 0.7% over 40 m (p < 0.05). The static - dynamic stretching protocol also improved countermovement jump height by 8.7% (p < 0.01) and power by 6.7% (p < 0.01).ConclusionsStatic stretching reduces sprint speed and jump performance. Static stretching should be followed by dynamic stretching during warm-up to nullify any performance deficits caused by static stretching.